2001 BMW 320 vs. 1972 Renault 12
To start off, 2001 BMW 320 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 320 (170 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1972 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1972 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 320 weights approximately 750 kg more than 1972 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 BMW 320 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2001 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Renault 12, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 BMW 320 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW 320 | 1972 Renault 12 | |
| Make | BMW | Renault |
| Model | 320 | 12 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3000 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 56 L |
